BRPI0612861A2 - interfaces and systems for displaying athletic performance information on electronic devices - Google Patents

Abstract

Athletic performance monitoring systems include components for sensing performance data and/or displaying desired information to users. Electronic interface systems facilitate transfer of the data from the performance sensing system to a display device, e.g. , to enable the display of athletic performance data on an electronic display device, including conventional electronic display devices that are known and commercially available {e.g. , cellular telephones, PDAs, pagers, beepers, MP3 or other audio players, radios, portable televisions, portable DVD players, other video playing devices, watches, etc.) . The sensing systems, as well as any data transfer systems associated therewith, may be included as part of an article of footwear, an article of clothing, a piece of athletic equipment, or the like, or even included as part of the interface device.; The portable systems include sensor means, a housing, data transfer system, data input system, an interface, data output system, e.g. a display. The output system comprises a connection system for releasably engaging an input port of the portable electronic device.

Description

"INTERFACES AND SYSTEMS FOR DISPLAYING ATHLETE PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ON ELECTRONIC DEVICES"

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to athletic performance monitoring systems. These systems may include components for sensing athletic performance data and / or displaying desired user information. Electronic interface systems according to at least some aspects of the present invention facilitate the transfer of athletic performance data from the performance sensing system to a processing system and / or a video device, for example to enable data entry, storage , analysis, and / or display on or through an electronic video device, including or through known and commercially available conventional electronic video devices (for example, devices that are not typically designed or adapted to display performance data). athletic).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Modern technology has given rise to a wide range of electronic equipment and / or communication devices that keep users in touch, entertained, and informed. A wide range. Portable electronic devices are available for these purposes, such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), pagers, beeps, oMP3 or other audio players, radios, portable televisions, DVD players, or other devices. video production; watches, GPS systems, etc. Many people like to carry one or more of these device types with them while exercising and / or participating in athletic events, for example, to keep in touch with others (for example, in the event of inclement weather, injuries, emergencies, to contact their supporters, etc. .) to keep them entertained, provide information (for example, time, direction, location, etc.) or the like.

Performance monitoring systems have also benefited from recent advances in electronic technology. Electronic performance monitoring devices allow easy and convenient monitoring of many physical and physiological characteristics associated with exercise or other athletic performance, including, for example, speed and distance data, altitude data, GPS system data, heart rate, pulse rate, blood pressure data, body temperature, etc. Although such data may be collected during athletic performance, providing such information to a user during performance and / or the possibility of user use and interaction with data and / or sensors during performance may be more problematic. For example, the need for the user to carry an additional video device during athletic performance may be undesirable due to the weight, complication, and inconvenience of disconnecting such devices, since users often already have one or more portable electronic devices they like. to take (for example, the types described above), etc. In addition, substantial costs may be involved in providing a dedicated athletic performance monitor and / or video device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Aspects of the present invention relate to athletic performance monitoring systems. These systems may include components for measuring or sensing athletic performance and / or displaying desired information associated with athletic performance to the user (or others). An electronic interface system or device may be provided to facilitate the transfer of athletic performance data from the sensing system to the video device, for example, to enable display of athletic performance data on any electronic video device, including known and commercially available conventional electronic video devices (eg, mobile phones, PDA assistants, pagers, beeps, MP3 or other audio players, radios, portable televisions, portable DVD players, other video playback devices; watches, etc.).

Aspects of the present invention may include electronic interface devices of the types described above, as well as systems and methods in which they are used. Such systems and methods may include: (a) a sensing device for sensing physical and / or physiological data associated with exercise or athletic performance; (b) a data transfer system in communication with the performance data transmission sensing device, wherein the performance data includes at least some portion of the physical or physiological data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of physical or physiological data; (c) an electronic interface device; and / or a portable video device releasably connected to the interface device, wherein the electronic interface device provides video data for the portable video device, and wherein the video data includes at least some portion of the performance data or derived data, at least in part from at least some portion of the performance data. The electronic interface device may include, for example, an input system in communication with or adapted to receive performance data from the data transfer system, and an output system having a connection system that includes at least one disconnect element for physically connecting. to the due device. The connecting element of the electronic interface device may physically plug into an existing port or socket (such as a universal serial bus port, a parallel port, or other data input or power / recharger ports) provided on the video device, including conventional input ports known and used in commercially available electronic video devices.

If desired, performance sensing devices, as well as any data transfer systems associated with them, may be mounted (for example, by means of a clip, clip, hook and loop fasteners, other fasteners or mechanical structures, adhesives, etc.). ) and / or included as part of a footwear article (for example, integrally formed into or as part of an athletic footwear article, such as the sole element), a clothing article, a athletic piece, etc. In addition, the desensing device and its associated data transfer system, if any, may be included as part of a single structure or general component, mounted in a common housing or on a single plate connected or linked together, etc., optionally while sharing with one common power source, connectors, or the like, according to at least some examples of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention and at least some aspects and advantages thereof can be obtained by reference to the following description and the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements in their entirety, in which: Figure 1 illustrates systems exemplary and exemplary environments in which various aspects and features of the present invention may be used;

Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary electronic interface / video device combination according to at least some examples of the present invention;

Figure 3 illustrates a schematic diagram showing the components provided in an example of an electronic interface device according to the present invention;

Figure 4 illustrates a schematic diagram showing the components provided in an example of an athletic performance monitoring system according to the present invention;

Figure 5 illustrates an example of an athletic performance monitoring system according to the present invention in which the athletic performance data sensor or collection device is mounted on a decalted article;

Figure 6 illustrates an example of an athletic performance monitoring system according to the present invention in which the athletic performance data sensor or collection device is mounted on an apparatus article;

Figure 7 illustrates a schematic diagram showing the components provided in another example of an electronic interface device according to the present invention, Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary system and exemplary environment in which various aspects and features of the electronic interface device of Figure 7 can be used. ; and

Figure 9 illustrates an example of an athletic performance monitoring system in accordance with the present invention in which the athletic performance data collection system is mounted on a piece of athletic equipment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF MODES OF THE INVENTION

In the description of various examples of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which are part thereof, and in which, by way of illustration, various structures, embodiments, and examples are shown in which aspects of the present invention may be used. and practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be employed and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

I. General Description of Aspects of the Invention

Aspects of the present invention generally relate to systems and devices used for monitoring athletic performance, for example measuring, processing, storing, and / or displaying physical and / or physiological data associated with an athletic event, routine exercise, or to another physical or athletic performance (the term "athletic performance" is used in this descriptive report to refer generically to any type of athletic event, exercise, training, routine, or dog thing). Some more specific aspects of the present invention relate to systems and methods for providing athletic performance data for video devices to enable display and further processing and / or storing athletic performance information and / or data. According to at least some examples of the present invention, the video device may be a commercially available conventional electronic, video and / or alphanumeric audio device (such as a cell phone, a watch, a PDA assistant, a pager, an MP3 player). , an audio player, a radio, a portable television, a portable DVD player, a video display device, or the like). At least some examples of the present invention may include an "adapter" or other interface system or device: (a) for receiving data from an athletic performance sensing system, and (b) for transmitting data to the video device, optionally with some auxiliary processing to place the data in a desired shape or format, for example for immediate display on the video device, for storage, etc. The interface system or device may physically plug into an existing port or jack (such as a universal serial bus port, parallel port, or other data input or power / recharger ports) provided on the video device, including the ports. conventional input devices known and used in commercially available electronic video devices. This optional feature offers advantages in that it provides conventional electronic video device owners (for example, the types described above) with the ability to display, store, and / or relay physical or physiological data collected during athletic performance (for example, while walking). , a race, a bike race, a race, etc., a user could view performance data (eg speed, distance, heart rate, etc.) on a cell phone video and / or receive audio information via headphones. connected to a cell phone or other audio-capable device or the like).

More specific examples of aspects of the present invention follow.

A.Electronic Interface Devices

A first aspect of the present invention relates to interface devices, for example, suitable for physical connection to an electronic video device, such as the various conventional and commercially available electronic video devices described above.

Such interface devices may include, for example:

(a) a housing system; (b) an input system at least partially embedded in the housing system, wherein the input system is adapted to receive input data from one or more external data sources, wherein the input data includes and / or is derived from physical data and / or physiological collected during exercise or an athletic performance; and (c) an output system at least partially fitted to the housing system, wherein the output system includes a connection system that includes at least one connection element so as to physically and releasably fit into an electronic device input port wherein the output system is adapted to provide output data for the portable external electronic device, and wherein the output data includes at least some portion of the input data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of the data. Input data.

Various other elements or components may be included in the desired electronic interface devices according to at least some examples of the present invention. For example, electronic interface devices according to at least some examples of the present invention may further include a processing system, optionally at least partially located within or embedded in the housing system, for receiving input data and / or for supplying output data for the output system (optionally after converting data into another form or other data processing). Electronic interface devices according to at least some examples of the present invention may further include a memory system, optionally at least partially located or nested in the housing system, for storing at least some portion of the input data or derived data at least in part. from at least some portion of the input data. If desired, the data may be stored in the electronic interface device or made available for further analysis (eg for post-exercise analysis), optionally after transfer or transmission to a computer or other processing system. As a still further example, electronic interface devices according to at least some examples of the present invention may further include a separate power supply, at least partially within or embedded in the housing system, to provide strength to at least one of the two. the output system or input system (for example, a rechargeable debating system, a battery power supply, and / or an AC / DC power supply input).

B. Athletic Performance Monitoring SystemsIncluding a Performance Sensor and Electronic Interface Device

Another aspect of the present invention relates to athletic performance monitoring systems which include a sensor for sensing athletic performance data and an electronic interface device, for example, of the types generally described above. These athletic performance monitoring systems may include, for example: (a) a sensing device for sensing physical and / or physiological data associated with athletic performance; (b) a data transfer system in communication with the sensing device for the performance data transmission, wherein the performance data includes at least some portion of the physical or physiological data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of the data. physical or physiological data; and (c) an electronic interface device.

The electronic interface device of this exemplary system may include, for example: an input system in communication with the data transfer system for receiving performance data; and an output system has a connection system that includes at least one disconnect element to physically and releasably fit into an input port of a portable electronic video device, wherein the output system is adapted to provide video data for the portable electronic video device, and wherein the video data includes at least some portion of the performance data or data derived at least in part from the performance data.

Other athletic performance monitoring systems according to at least some examples of the present invention include a sensing device within and / or as part of the same component as the electronic interface device. Such athletic performance monitoring systems may include, for example: (a) a housing system; (b) a sensing system at least partially or otherwise fitted to the housing system for sensing physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance; (c) a data transfer system in communication with a sensing device suitable for transmitting performance data, wherein the performance data includes at least some portion of the physical or physiological data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of the data. physical or physiological data; and (d) an output system at least partially fitted to the housing system, wherein the output system includes a connector system that includes at least one disconnect element to physically and releasably fit into an input port of a portable electronic video device. wherein the output system is adapted for video outputs to the portable electronic video device, and wherein the video data includes at least a portion of the performance data performance or data derived at least in part from the performance data.

Any type of athletic performance data may be sensed and transferred to the electronic interface device, optionally in any shape or form, without departing from the present invention. As more specific examples, athletic performance monitoring systems according to at least some examples of the present invention may sense and / or transmit: user speed data; user distance data; GPS system data; altitude data; route data; user step count data; impact force data with contact surface; room temperature data; ambient humidity data; barometric pressure data; sole element decompression data; jump height data, pulse beat data; heartbeat data, blood pressure data; body temperature data; air inlet rate or air inlet volume data; air blowout rate or expelled air volume data; EKG data; EEG data; blood gas data; or something genre. Additionally, if desired, multiple different types of data may be sensed and / or transmitted to the electronic interface device, including, for example, combinations of the various different types of data described above. Optionally, the electronic interface device may receive performance data from multiple sensors or data sources, optionally with some sources independent of the electronic interface device and / or other sources included in or as part of the electronic interface device.

C. Athletic Performance Monitoring SystemsIncluding an Electronic Interface Device and a Video Device

Another aspect of the present invention relates to athletic performance monitoring systems that include electronic interface devices, for example, the types generally described above, in combination with (for example, physically connected to) electronic video devices. Such systems may include, for example: (a) an electronic interface device including: (i) an input system adapted to receive performance data from one or more external data sources, where performance data includes or is derived from physical data. physiological data collected during an athletic performance; and (ii) an output system including a connection system having at least one physical connection element; and (b) a portable video device connected to the disconnect element, wherein the output system provides video data for the video device. through the disconnect system, and wherein the video data includes at least some portion of the performance data or data derived at least in part some of the performance data.

Performance data or data derived at least in part from performance data may be displayed on the video device, if desired, in real time as the athletic performance is continued and / or stored (interface device or on the video device) for later transfer, use. , processing, and / or analysis.

If desired, according to at least some examples of the present invention, the video device processing system may be used to control the operations of the electronic interface device or performance data sensing systems such as the data transfer system. sensor for the interface device), the data reception system, the data transfer to the video device for display, data storage (for example, in the built-in memory, the video device and / or the electronic interface device), the interface with the user, data demands or requests, etc. The video device may include software, for example, transferred to it to enable control of the various aspects and / or functions of the electronic interface device (alternatively, if desired, the control software and / or functions may be triggered by the processing capabilities possessed by the electronic interface device, such as a processing system provided with the interface device). As a specific example, if desired, the software may constitute a Java application that navigates with the video device or as an interface device and / or is loaded onto it at a later time. As additional examples, a user may purchase an interface device of the above types and obtain software (for example, as a purchase with the interface device, loaded from a remote or external source, etc.) in order to format the interface device to interact with. suitably common or more electronic devices used by the user (for example, the software may be designed to allow the interface device to format its output to meet the requirements of the mobile phone models, PDA assistant, MP3 player, etc., used by the user. Also, if desired, commands sent from the video device to the electronic interface device can be used, for example, to turn the interface device on and off, to configure radio transceiver parameters and controls, to configure other functions or controls ( such as image preferences, data collection preferences, data, renewal, or recording fees, etc.) or the like. The video device may be capable of receiving data from the electronic interface device synchronously or asynchronously.

As noted above, aspects of the present invention may be practiced with any type of video device without departing from the present invention, including, for example, known and commercially available conventional video devices (also called "shelf" video or audio or video communication devices). "). More specific examples of suitable video devices include: electronic devices with a video screen, such as an LED, LCD, or plasma video screen; watches; portable audio devices such as radios, cassette players, CD players, MP3 players, or the like; alphanumeric video devices, such as beeps, pagers, or the like; portable video or audio / video display devices, such as televisions, DVD players, or the like; portable communication devices such as cellular telephones, radios, or the like; portable decomputing systems, such as personal digital assistants, handheld or palmtop computer systems, or the like.

D. Athletic Performance Monitoring SystemsIncluding a Sensing Device, Electronic Interface Device, and Video Device

Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to athletic performance monitoring systems that include components for both sensing athletic performance data and displaying desired user (or other person) information. Such systems may include: (a) a de-sensing device for sensing associated physical or physiological data. athletic performance; (b) a data transfer system in communication with the desensor device for the transmission of performance data, wherein the performance data includes at least some portion of the physical or physiological data or data derived, at least in part, from at least some portion of the physical or physiological data; (c) an electronic interface device; and (d) a portable video device that is physically and releasably connected to the interface device, wherein the electronic interface device provides video data for the portable video device, and wherein the video data includes at least some portions of the performance data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of the performance data. The electronic interface device may further include: an input system in communication with or adapted to receive performance data from the data transfer system, and an output system having a connection system that includes at least one disconnect element to connect to the device. of video.

E.Other Resources and Aspects of the Invention

Many other features and characteristics may be provided in accordance with the various exemplary aspects of the present invention as described above. For example, the connection system included as part of the electronic interface device may take various forms without departing from the present invention. As more specific examples, the connection system may include a socket or other element designed to be received into or fitted with a conventional power or data input port of conventional electronic devices, for example, of the types described above. Such entry ports may include serial ports, parallel ports, universal serial debug ports, power / battery recharging ports, fingered entry ports, or the like. If desired, the connection system may further include one or more power supply connectors so that the power source (e.g., battery, etc.) of the portable video device may also be trusted to operate various devices on the electronic interface device. In such systems, the electronic interface device need not include its own independent power supply, thus allowing for the size, weight, and cost reduction of electronic interface devices.

Any type of electronic interface device input system may also be provided without departing from the present invention. As more specific examples, the input system may include a wireless data receiving system for receiving incoming data from at least one external data source (for example, from sensing devices that would sense athletic performance data from a computer or network, etc.) λ a physical wired or other connection system (optionally with one or more connection elements provided on the sensing device for connecting the external data source on the interface device), etc. Interface device formatting data (for example, to format the output for release to specific electronic video devices, etc.) and other data, if any, may be received by the interface device through the same input system that allows it to receive physical or physiological data, or through any entry system, if desired. The electronic interface device may additionally or alternatively include a user input system, optionally at least partially in a housing system for the interface device. User input may be received from the interface device for any desired purpose, such as requests for certain image information, requests for certain sensed information, video or sensor control information, fingerprint requests or information from other sources, etc., and for providing formatting information (for example, identifying target electronic video devices to enable the provision of output data in formats that will work with the specific video device, etc.) or other information, etc. Examples of god entry systems may include buttons (permanent or temporary), voice input systems, pen input systems, touchscreen input systems, slide or key systems, or the like. .

Sensing systems for sensing athletic performance data (e.g., detected physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance) may be provided in any desired shape or structure and / or for measuring any desired data or parameter without departing from the present invention. As more specific examples, if desired, the de-sensing system and / or devices, as well as any associated data transfer systems, may be mounted on (for example, through a clip, clip, hook and loop fasteners, or other fasteners or structures mechanical parts, adhesives, etc.) and / or included as part of a footwear article (for example, integrally formed in or as part of an athletic footwear article, such as in the sole element), a clothing article, a athletic piece , etc. If desired, the sensing devices and any associated data transfer data may be included as part of a single structure, for example mounted in a common housing, connected or linked together, etc.

II. Specific Examples of the Invention

While aspects of the present invention are generally described above, the following detailed description, together with Figures 1 to 9, provides even more detailed electronic interface devices and athletic performance monitoring systems and methods in accordance with the examples of the present invention. . Those skilled in the art should of course understand that the following description constitutes descriptions of examples of the present invention and in no way should be construed as limiting the present invention.

Figure 1 illustrates exemplary systems and an environment in which various aspects of the present invention may be used. As shown in Figure 1, a person engaged in athletic performance may have one or more sensing devices 102 (a), 102 (b), 102 (c), and 102 (d) included in the person, in their clothing, in their footwear. , listen to your equipment. These sensing devices may sense data associated with athletic performance, including, for example, physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance. As more specific examples, in the environment illustrated in Figure 1, sensors 102 (a) and 102 (b) can sense step count (for example, pedometer speed and / or distance measurement), GPS system data, step impact force (for example, for active impact attenuation control), jump height data, or dog stuff; sensor 102 (c) can sense pulse rate, body temperature, blood pressure, hydration levels, or the like; and sensor 102 (d) can sense the heartbeat, EKG data, or the like. Of course, any number of sensors may be provided and such sensors may sense any desired type of athletic performance information without departing from the present invention. Additional examples of potential athletic performance data that may be collected include, but are not limited to: user speed data, user distance data, GPS system data (eg location data), altitude data, route data; user pass count data; contact force impact force data; room temperature data; environmental humidity data; barometric pressure data; sole element compression data; jump height data; pulse-debating data; heartbeat data; blood depression data; body temperature data; hydration level data; air intake rate or return air intake data; air expulsion rate or exhaust air volume data; EKG data; EEG data; blood gas data; or something like that.

The various sensors, for example 102 (a) to 102 (d), may further be portable and carried by the person 100 in any desired manner without departing from the present invention. For example, if desired, one or more sensors may be mounted within or on a shoe article (104) (e.g., as sensors 102 (a) and 102 (b) in this example) provided within or on an athletic device article ( for example, as an arm strap 106, in this example, including sensor 102 (c), on a shirt, notation, trousers, socks, headband, etc.), and / or loaded on a piece of athletic equipment (for example, like a bicycle, bat, racket, club, vehicle, ball, etc.). As still further examples, as illustrated in Figure 1, a sensing device 102 (d) may be mounted directly to the athlete's body 100 by means of stickers, straps, hooks, other mechanical connectors, or the like.

Sensing systems and / or devices 102 (a) to 102 (d), as well as any associated data transfer systems (e.g., wireless transmitters or transceivers 108 shown in Figure 1 and described below (e.g. (radio transceivers)) can be mounted on footwear, clothing, athletic equipment, or the like in any way desired, for example via clips, staples, stickers, stitching, in pockets, through hook-type fasteners and handle, or other fasteners or mechanical structures, etc. Alternatively, if desired, sensing systems or devices 102 (a) to 102 (d) may be integrally formed with and / or included as part of a footwear article, a clothing article, a piece of athletic equipment, etc., without away from the present invention (e.g. mounted on the same, optionally permanently or freely removable, etc.). If desired, one or more sensing devices and their associated data transfer systems 108 may be included as part of a single structure, for example mounted in a common housing and / or a common plate, connected to one another, etc., without departing from each other. of the present invention. In addition, if desired, the housing (if any) may be equipped with operating lights (eg LEDs, etc.) or other indicators, for example to indicate the condition of power (eg on / off), the condition processing (for example, at rest X receiving Xtransmitting X processing, etc.), to discharge or recharge level conditions, etc.

In accordance with at least some exemplary aspects of the present invention, physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance may be collected by the various sensing devices (for example, devices 102 (a) to 102 (d)) and transmitted to a video device 110 for display (and optionally storage, other processing, etc.). Any type of video device 110 may be used without departing from the present invention, including, for example, conventional or "shelf" video devices 110. More specific examples of video device 110 Suitable video110 includes: electronic devices with a video screen, such as an LED, LCD, or plasma video screen; watches; portable audio devices such as radios, cassette players, CD players, MP3 players, or the like; alphanumeric video devices, such as beeps, pagers, or the like; portable video or audio / video display devices, such as portable televisions, DVD players, or the like; portable communication devices such as cell phones, radios, or the like; portable computer systems such as PDA assistants, handheld or palm top computer systems, or the like. In the illustrated example, the video device 110 includes a mobile phone that holds on its waist so that it is readily charged and worn during athletic performance. The use of this type of arrangement is advantageous in at least some situations, as athletic performance data may be displayed on the video system of the mobile phone 110, and the user need not carry an entire video device to allow the display of fitness data. athletic performance (thereby reducing weight and costs).

You cannot simply start transmitting the performance data from the dimming devices 102 (a) to 102 (d) to a conventional cell phone 110 and the phone 110 is expected to operate to receive this data and display it in the desired format. (and / or in a user-controllable form or shape). Accordingly, as illustrated in Figure 1 and in more detail in Figure 2, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may include an electronic interface device 112 that physically connects to video device 110 (for example, in a releasable manner). and is loaded together with the video device 110 during athletic performance. As shown in more detail in Figure 2, the electronic interface device 112 of this example includes connector system 114 which physically connects or connects to conventional input ports 116 provided in video device model 110. Input port 116 on which connector system 114 of A separate interface device 112 may be any type of input port provided by a video device 110, such as data input ports (e.g., parallel ports, serial ports, USB ports, headphones or other sockets or ports, etc.), such as the input ports used in conventional electronic devices for data entry, recharging, AC power supply, etc. The connector system 114 may include suitable disconnect devices, such as wires, pins, electrical connectors, or the like, in order to make the electrical connection or other connections suitable for the corresponding elements provided in the video device input port 116 (e.g., allow electronic and / or data communications between interface device 112 and video device 110). If necessary or desired, additional fasteners may be provided for securely securing the interface device 112 to the video device 110, such as strips, hooks, buckles, clips, clips, retaining elements, mechanical connectors, or the like.

In operation, the electronic interface device 110 may receive signals from one or more external sources, such as the various sensing devices 102 (a) to 102 (d), for example, transmitted via the data transfer systems 108 included in the sensing devices 102 ( a) 102 (d) for a data receiving device or system 118 provided on or with the interface device 112 (e.g., a wireless transceiver device receiver, a radio transceiver, an infrared receiver, a light source receiver, If desired, data transfer system 108 and data reception system 118 may include the ability to receive input data and to transmit output data without departing from the present invention (of course, receiving and transmitting devices or systems). separate devices may be provided on each of the detent devices 102 (a) to 102 (d) and on the interface device 110 if desired). Although a wireless communication protocol is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, of course, any desired manner of communication between sensing devices 102 (a) to 102 (d) and interface device 112 can be used without departing from the present invention, including connections. wired, desired. The signals from sensors 102 (a) to 102 (d), optionally after processing interface device data 112 to place them in a form or format for display and / or use by video device 110, are transferred from interface device 112 to video device 110 via connector system 114 (which is physically connected to video device input port 116). Once input to the video device 110, the input data can be further processed if required or desired and then displayed to the user in a desired form on the video panel 120.

Of course, any desired manner of bringing back the data derived from the physical or physiological data of the sensor devices 102 (a) to 102 (d) in the form or format suitable for display on the video device 110 may be provided without departing from the present invention. As examples, if desired, interface device 112 may be specially designed and / or programmed for use with one or more specific electronic devices 110 (for example, pre-programmed to operate with a specific device or devices and provide output data in a suitable shape or format). for these devices). In this situation, interface devices 112 may be marketed and sold specifically for certain electronic video devices 110. As an alternative, if desired, interface devices 112 may be programmed at a later time to operate with a wide variety of different electronic devices 110, for example. when transferring the video driver and / or format data to video-specific devices 110 from the internet, a disc, or another source; etc. As a more specific example, when the user connects interface device 112 to an electronic device 110 (for example, for the first time), signals exchanged between interface device 112 and electronic device 110 may identify the devices to each other and / or to another. allow the system to process one of the devices to transfer the driver or configure the information from a remote or external source such as the internet, from a disk, from a memory included in the interface device 112, etc., similar to how personal computer devices recognize newly attached hardware (for example, a mouse, printer, scanner, etc.) and / or perform various setup operations associated with newly added hardware or software. Of course, other ways of ensuring that the data is placed in a form or format suitable for display may be used without departing from the present invention. Processing for placing the data in the form or display format may occur on the interface device 112, on the video device 110, and / or on any other desired component without departing from the present invention.

If desired, according to at least some examples of the present invention, the electronic interface device 112 may further include a godin input system, such as one or more buttons 122 provided in the illustrated example shown in Figure 2. This godin input system 122 may be used, for example, to control one or more aspects of incoming data processing received via the data receiving device 118 in order to control the reception of incoming data (e.g., timing, types of information received, data requests on demand, etc.). ) in order to control the data output to video device 110, to control sensing devices 102 (a) to 102 (d), etc. Alternatively or additionally, if desired, the input system on video device 110 (e.g., buttons 124, a touchscreen, a digitizer / pen input, etc.) can be used to provide user input data. for interface device 112 and / or sensor devices 102 (a) a102 (d) or sensing systems (for example, if connector system 114 or another portion of interface device 112 is designed to accept video device input 110). As a still further example, a voice input system may be provided as interface device 112 and / or with video device 110, for example, to allow user input via voice commands. Any other desired type of user input system for the control of any system element and / or for any purpose may be provided without departing from the present invention.

Video device 110 may include additional input elements, for example, ports 126 and 128 shown in Figure 2 for headphones, power supplies, wireless communications, infrared input, or other devices. If desired, and if these ports 126 and 128 are covered when the interface device 112 is fixed to the video device 110, the interface device 112 may be equipped with ports similar to ports 126 and 128, and an internal circuit may be provided on the interface device. 112 in order to allow the user to connect the same additional devices to the interface device 112, as they could connect to the video device 110 and present the advantage of the same functions (e.g., to allow data, signals, and / or necessary information passes through the interface device 112 to the user and / or the video device 110).

Figure 3 includes a schematic diagram of several exemplary components that may be included in an electronic interface device 112 according to at least some examples of the present invention. As shown in Figure 3 and described above in conjunction with Figures 1 and 2, interface device 112 may include a connection system 114 for physically connecting to a video device, and a data receiving system 118 (e.g., a receiver or wireless data transceiver, infrared receiver, etc.) to receive input data from an external source, such as a sensor for athletic performance sensors, a computer, a network, or other processing system, etc. Additionally, as further shown in Figure 3, the interface device 112 may include an input system 122 for receiving user input, for example, via key, touch screens, a digitizer, voice input, pen input, etc. According to at least some examples of the present invention, the electronic interface device 112 may further include a processing system, for example a microprocessor 300, for performing various operations, for example, for operating the electronic interface, for interacting with power sources. external data, to receive user input from one or more sources (eg via the input system 122, via a computer or network connections, etc.) / and / or to interact with the video device (for example, via the output provided to the video device via wire or pin302 connections included in the connection system 114). Of course, any number of wire, pin, or other connections may be provided via the connection system 114 so as to provide adequate data / electronic communications between the interface device 112 and an external video device (for example, as the connection systems provided in mobile phones, PDA assistants, or other portable electronic devices, including known and commercially available conventional electronic devices). The connector system 114 may be designed to correspond to the video device to which it connects to provide a path for electronic / data communications between the interface device 112 and the video device (e.g., device 110). In addition, if desired, microprocessor 300 may include operating system software and / or may process input data from the sensing device in accordance with at least some examples of the present invention to transform data into forms suitable for reception by use in , and / or display by the video device in order to change the shape or format of the data in order to make calculations based on raw input data, etc.

Figure 3 further illustrates a power supply device 304 included as part of the electronic interface device 112. This power supply device 304 may include a conventional battery, for example, a rechargeable battery as is commonly known and used in the field of electronics. Alternatively or additionally, if desired, the power supply device 304 may receive power input from the video device to which it is attached (e.g., via an input pin, wire, line 306 or other connection system). ) and use the power source of the video device to operate the various elements and components on the interface device 112, (for example, microprocessor 300, data receiving system 118, input system 122, any operational listening light, or something). As yet another example, if desired, the power supply 304 may connect to an external power source, such as an AC power supply, a battery power source, etc.

If desired, some or all of the various parts illustrated in Figure 3 may be mounted, housed, or contained in or on a housing system 308 or otherwise made as a convenient module or package. The connector system 114 may at least partially extend out of the housing 308, may be integrally formed as part of the housing 308, may be a separate member attached to the housing 308 (e.g. by means of decals or connectors, etc.), or otherwise available and / or included in housing system 308.

Figure 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of a general athletic performance monitoring system 400 according to at least some examples of the present invention. In this system 400, an electronic interface device 402 is physically connected to a portable electronic video device 404 via a connection system. mechanical 406 which holds the two devices together, for example, in a firm but releasable manner (for example by means of a friction fitting, locking or holding elements, etc.). Optionally, if desired, other independent fasteners may be provided in order to at least partially assist in securing the interfacing device 402 to the portable electronic video device404 (e.g. etc.).

This exemplary system 400 further includes a sensing system 408 for measuring and transmitting athletic performance data. More specifically, in this exemplary structure, athletic performance data (eg, physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance) is sensed by sensors A and B, and data from these sensors is sent to the sensing system's processing system, for example. , a microprocessor, which can optionally cause data to be stored (for example, in a system or storage memory (not shown in Figure 4)), still processed, etc. A separate power supply may be provided to operate the various components of the de-damping system 408, such as the sensors, the microprocessor, the data transfer system 410, the memory, and / or any other desired or necessary component. If desired, the built-in microprocessor in sensing system 408, if any, can process sensor data, change its shape or shape, or otherwise manipulate data before sending it to other parts of system 400.

At an appropriate or desired time (for example, when a data request is periodically received automatically upon user demand, etc.), sensing system 408 may send at least some portion of its data (for example, raw data directly from one or more sensors, data derived at least in part from raw data, etc.) to the electronic interface device 402, for example for possible display to a user on video device 404. This can be done, for example, as shown in Figure 4 via a wireless data transmission system (for example, from wireless data transfer or transmission element 410 from sensing system 408 to wireless data receiving element 412 of electronic interface device 402) or from any other desired manner without departing from the present invention, any wireless protocol, broadcast protocol, or other data transmission protocol desired by may be used without departing from the present invention.

When received on the electronic interface device 402, athletic performance data may be further processed, if necessary or desired, and then supplied to the processing system (e.g., the microprocessor) of the video device 404. This may be done at any desired time ( for example, when a data request is automatically received periodically, upon user demand, etc.) without departing from the present invention. Hence, the data may be further processed, if necessary or desired, and then sent to video screen 414 in a form suitable for presentation and viewing by a user (eg, audio, video, and / or an alphanumeric form, etc.). .).

In the illustrated exemplary system 400, the power to the electronic interface device 402 is supplied through the power supply 416 used to operate the video device 404 (e.g., which may be a rechargeable battery of a mobile phone or other portable electronic device) as shown. via connection 418to power supply 416 via connection system 406. The "force" element 424 on interface device 402in this example can be used to simply distribute force from an external power source (for example, power supply 416 from device in this example) for various components of the interface device402. Alternatively, power element 424 may be omitted, for example, if the internal wiring of interface device 402 permits power transfer from power supply 416 to all required components of interface device 402. In addition, in this exemplary system 400, the input The user interface may be made to control the electronic interface device 402 through the input systems 420 provided on the portable video device 404. For example, if desired, a user may enter a specific mode of operation through the inputs provided on the video device 404 in which Various aspects, functions, or characteristics of the electronic interface device 402 may be controlled.

Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the electronic interface device 402 may include its own input system and / or its own power supply, for example, as described above in conjunction with Figure 3, without departing from the present invention (no. However, the use of these components and features of video device 404 helps to reduce overall size, weight, and cost of interface device 402).

Of course, many different arrangements of various elements or components, including some or all of the elements or components shown in Figure 4, may be used without departing from the present invention. In addition, additional components or elements may be included in such systems, or one or more of the illustrated systems or components may be eliminated without departing from the present invention. Additionally, if desired, a single electronic interface device 402 and video device 404 may be simultaneously operatively connected so as to receive data inputs from multiple independent desensing systems, for example of the type shown in reference number 408 (see, for example, arrangement of Figure 1). Many variations in the general structures, components, and architectures of various systems are possible to depart from the present invention.

A potential advantage of systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention is that the components and infrastructure of a portable electronic video device (e.g., a mobile phone, an MP3 player, a PDA assistant , or the like) can be leveled and used in combination with an electronic interface device that connects to it to allow an existing electronic device to additionally display and provide athletic performance data to a user without requiring the user to have or carry another electronic video device. . As noted above, the leveling of the input system and / or power supply of the existing electronic device used for its display may reduce the size, weight, cost, and complexity of the interface device, thereby providing advantage to the displays.

Athletic performance sensing systems can be provided in a wide variety of different environments without departing from the present invention. For example, as shown in Figure 4, if desired, one or more sensors for sensing data associated with athletic performance (for example, physical or physiological data) may be provided in a housing 422, optionally together with at least a portion of a data transfer system (e.g., a wireless transceiver or device 410) and / or other processing or electronic components, e.g. to provide an athletic performance sensing module or system 408. When provided as a module or otherwise provided as separate elements, these portions of athletic performance sensing systems (eg 408) may be provided anywhere desired without depart from the present invention, for example, by assuming that its data sensing, processing, and / or transmission adhesion are not compromised by their positioning. Figure 5 illustrates an exemplary system 500 in which an athletic performance sensing module 502 is mounted on an athletic footwear article 504. The sensing module 502 may include, for example, one or more athletic performance data sensors, a data transfer system data, processing capabilities, a power supply, and / or something (for example, such as the 408 system shown in Figure 4). Any desired way of mounting the sensing module 502 on or on footwear article 504 may be provided without departing from the present invention, such as through a slot or chamber, through a housing or mounting element, through strips. , adhesives, mechanical connectors, hook and loop fasteners, retaining elements via removable connections, etc. Alternatively, if desired, the de-damping module 502 may be integrally made as a part of footwear article 504, for example, during the manufacture of the footwear and / or permanently attached to it.

Also, as shown in Figure 5, the de-damping module 502 may be in wireless (or other) communication with an interface device 506, which in turn is physically connected to a video device 508, such as a cell phone, As illustrated in Figure 5. This video device 508 may be attached to a user's body, clothing, or equipment, for example, so as to be easily carried, moved, and / or viewed during athletic performance. In general, any of the various athletic performance data sensing systems, electronic interface devices, and / or portable electronic video devices of the types described above in conjunction with Figures 1 to 4 may be used without departing from the present invention. As more specific examples, if desired, sensing devices within the desensing module 502 may provide step content data, and the electronic interface device 506 may process this data, optionally along with the time data, to provide velocity data. pedometer type and / or distance for display on the 508 video device.

Of course, any type of data may be provided by the sensing modules 502 and any desired type of information may be displayed on the video device 508 without departing from the present invention.

Figure 6 illustrates another arrangement and / or environment of use of system 600 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention. In this example, the sensing device 602, which includes one or more individual sensing elements for measuring athletic performance data, is mounted on or over a garment such as a pocket or other fastening element 604 provided on a strap or belt 606.The belt or belt 606 or other article of apparatus may be affixed to the user's body (eg arm, waist, chest, leg, head, etc.) and may be arranged so that the built-in sensing elements of the detent device 602 measure desired data (for example, physical data associated with athletic performance, such as step count, speed, distances, impact force, etc., or physiological data such as heart rate, pulse rate, volumes or input / output ratios). temperature, body temperature, blood pressure, EKG data, EEG data, etc.). The measured data may be transmitted to the electronic interface device 608, optionally after initial processing, which in turn may further process the input and transfer data thereof to the video device 610 for display to the user.

Figure 7 illustrates another example of an electronic interface device 700 according to at least some examples of the present invention. The exemplary device 700 is similar to the electronic interface device 112 shown in Figure 3, including the disconnect system 114 (for example, for a physical connection to a video device (not shown)), the input system122, the microprocessor 300, the pins or data output connection wires 302, power supply 304, and data output connection pins or wires 306. All or some of these elements may be mounted on or on a common housing element 702, on a common board, and / or otherwise operationally connected or associated entresi. Device 700 differs from that shown in Figure 3 in that device 700 of Figure 7 includes an athletic performance monitoring sensor 704 directly embedded in the electronic interface device 700. Sensor 704 can sense any desired type of physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance, such as step count data (eg for pedometer distance and / or speed monitoring), direction data (eg , through a bar, etc.), pulse beat data, GPS system data, etc. By providing the sensor 704 directly embedded and / or otherwise as part of interface element 700, the separate external sensing element and wireless data transmission and / or reception systems (or other external data transmission or reception capacity) may be provided. eliminated from the general athletic performance monitoring system (as shown in Figure 7, the sensing element 704 may be directly wired, or otherwise in communication with the processing system 300 included in the interface element 700).

Alternatively or additionally, as shown in Figure 7, the interface element 700 may further be provided with the data receiving system 118, for example, to allow communication with other sensors (such as the additional athletic performance sensors), the external data sources, computers, networks, or other processing systems, and / or other separate devices or systems, for example, to allow data entry. Such methods have the flexibility to receive data from a variety of different sources including at least one directly embedded in the interface element 700.

Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary arrangement and / or environment in which the system of Figure 7 may be used. As shown in Figure 8, the athletic performance monitoring system 800 of this example includes the electronic interface device 700 connected to a devideo 802 device such as for example, a conventional cell phone or PDA assistant. The combined 800 system is then attached to the wearer's device (for example, strapped on a belt or waistband), and the user begins athletic performance. During performance, the interface sensor 700 sensor senses the athletic performance data (e.g., an accelerometer or other device that senses step count information), and this data can then be used to provide pedometer and / or velocity information. or dististance that are then displayed on the 802 video device image screen. Thus, it is not necessary for a user's footwear, clothing, or equipment to be separately equipped with a wireless or Another common way is an electronic interface device for providing input data on a video device. Of course, as noted above, any type of data may be sensed and / or displayed without departing from the present invention.

The specific exemplary systems described above refer primarily to systems in which their various portions (e.g., the sensing system, the electronic interface device and / or the video device) are fixed to and / or integrated with various demode elements to be directly loaded by the system. user in use. The systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention, however, are not limited to loaded articles, such as personally charged sensors. Figure 9 illustrates an exemplary system 900 in which one or more sensing devices 902 select or are provided in an article of athletic equipment. More specifically, in the example illustrated in Figure 9, a sensing device 902 is mounted on the fork 904 of a bicycle or other wheel 906. In this exemplary frame 900, wheel 906 includes a magnet source, light or other radiation source, or other element. 908 (e.g. mounted on the tire rim), and this source 908 is detected by a corresponding sensor 910 provided with the sensing device part 902 as wheel 906 rotates. The number of times the source 908 passes through the sensor can be converted to speed and / or distance data, and this information (or the gross number of wheel revolutions) can be supplied to an electronic interface device 912 (for example, wireless or otherwise) for processing, storing, and / or displaying on an electronic video device 914, such as a video screen of a mobile phone, an assistant PDA, watch, etc. Of course, any type of data can be measured and any desired type of information can be displayed on the video device 914 without departing from the present invention. The video device may be carried by the user, mounted on the equipment (for example, on the handlebars of a bicycle), and / or otherwise available to the user.

Of course, sensing devices of various types may be provided on a wide variety of different types of equipment (for example, on an athletic equipment) and their sensed data (or data derived therefrom) may be routed to electronic interface devices in accordance with additional examples herein. invention. Examples of equipment types that may have such sensors include, but are limited to: pieces of swinging athletic equipment, such as baseball or softball bats, deflashing bats, cricket bats, tennis rackets, hockey sticks, or things like that (for example, measuring and displaying oscillation velocity, projectile velocity, angle, or direction, and / or other oscillation and / or interaction characteristics of the projectile, etc.); balls, baseball gloves; hockey equipment, impact attenuation devices such as knee and other shock absorbing equipment, boxing equipment, sailing or kayaking equipment; the ski equipment, etc.

III. Conclusion

While the present invention has been described with respect to specific examples, including presently preferred embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described systems and methods. For example, various aspects of the present invention may be used in different combinations and in various sub-combinations of aspects of the present invention may be used without departing from the present invention. Further, various elements, components, and / or steps described above may be changed without departing from the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention should be broadly constructed as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (73)

1. Electronic interface device, characterized in that it comprises: - a housing system - an input system at least partially included or embedded in the housing system, wherein the input system is adapted to receive input data from one or more sources external data, where input data includes or is derived from physical or physiological data collected during an athletic performance; an output system at least partially included or embedded in the housing system, wherein the output system includes a connection system that includes at least one connection element to fit releasably into an input port of a portable external electronic device in that the output system is adapted to provide output data for a portable electronic device, and wherein the output data includes at least some portion of the input data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of the input data. Electronic interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that the connection system further includes a power supply connector adapted to supply power from the portable electronic device to the electronic interface device. Electronic interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that the connection system includes a universal serial bus connection element. Electronic interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a processing system at least partially included in the housing system for receiving input data and for supplying output data to the output system. Electronic interface device according to claim 4, characterized in that the processing system performs processing of at least some of the input data before transmitting the output data to the output system. Electronic interface device according to claim 4, further comprising: - a memory at least partially included in the housing system for storing at least some portion of the input data or derived data, at least in part, of at least some portion of the data entered. Electronic interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that the input system includes a wireless data receiving system for receiving input data from at least one external data source. Electronic interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that the input system includes an input port for receiving an external connection element, wherein the external connection element connects to the input system for the transfer of input data from at least one external data source to the input system. Electronic interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: - a memory at least partially included in the housing system for storing at least some portion of the input or derived data, at least in part; at least some portion of the input data. Electronic interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: - a power supply at least partially included in the housing system for the provision of force for at least one of the output system and the inlet system. Electronic interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a user input system at least partially included in or about the hosting system for receiving user input information. Electronic interface device according to claim 11, characterized in that the user input system includes one or more permanent or temporary entry buttons. Electronic interface device according to claim 11, characterized in that the input system includes a voice command input system. Electronic interface device according to claim 11, characterized in that the user input system includes a digitizer for receiving pen input. 15. Athletic performance monitoring system, Characterized by the fact that it comprises: - a sensing device for physical or physiological sensors associated with athletic performance, a data transfer system in communication with the sensing device for transmitting performance data, in which the performance data include at least some portion of the physical or physiological data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of the physical or physiological data; and an electronic interface device including: an input system in communication with the data transfer system for receiving performance data; e- an output system having a connection system that includes at least one connection element for releasably fitting into a portable electronic device input port, wherein the output system is adapted to provide video data to a portable electronic device, and wherein the video data includes at least some portion of the performance data or data derived at least in part from the performance data. Athletic performance monitoring system according to Claim 15, characterized in that the electronic interface device further includes a processing system for receiving performance data via the input system and for supplying video data to the system. about to leave. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 16, characterized in that the input system includes a wireless data reception system and the data transfer system includes a wireless data transmission system in communication with the system. wireless data reception Athletic performance monitoring system according to Claim 15, characterized in that the input system includes a wireless data reception system and the data transfer system includes a wireless data transmission system in communication with the system. wireless data reception Athletic performance monitoring system according to Claim 15, characterized in that the input system includes an input port and the data transfer system includes a connection device releasably connected to the input port. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 15, characterized in that the electronic interface device further includes a memory for storing at least some portion of the performance data or video data. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 15, characterized in that it further comprises: - a footwear article, wherein the de-damping device is mounted on or on the footwear article. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 15, characterized in that it further comprises: - an article of clothing, wherein the de-sensing device is mounted on or on the article of clothing. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 15, characterized in that it further comprises: a piece of athletic equipment, wherein the sensing device is mounted on or on the piece of athletic equipment. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 15, characterized in that it further comprises: a housing for containing the damping device and the data transfer system. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 24, characterized by the fact that the housing includes a device for affixing to a wearer's clothing, shoes, or body or a piece of athletic equipment. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 15, characterized in that the sensing device detects information relating to at least one element selected from the group consisting of: user speed data; user distance data; GPS system data; altitude data; route data; user pass count data; contact force impact force data; room temperature data; environmental humidity data; barometric pressure data; sole element compression data; and jump height data. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 15, characterized in that the sensing device detects information relating to at least one element selected from the group consisting of: - pulse rate data; heart rate data; blood pressure data; body temperature data; hydration level data; air intake volume volume data; air expulsion rate or volume data; EKG data; and EEG data. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 15, characterized by the fact that the electronic interface device further includes a user input system for receiving user input information. 29. Athletic performance monitoring system, characterized in that it comprises: - an electronic interface device including: an input system adapted to receive performance data from one or more external data sources, where performance data includes or is derived from physical or physiological data collected during an athletic performance; e- an output system including a disconnect system having at least one physical connecting element; e- a portable video device that is releasably connected to the connection element, wherein the output system provides video data to the portable video device via the connection system, and wherein the video data includes at least some portion of the performance data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of the performance data. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized by the fact that the electronic interface device includes a processing system for receiving performance data and for supplying video data to the connecting system. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized by the fact that the input system includes a wireless receiving system for receiving performance data from at least one external data source. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized in that the electronic interface device further includes a memory for storing at least a portion of the performance data or video data. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized in that the portable video device includes a video screen. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized in that the portable video device includes an audio player. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized in that the portable video device includes an alphanumeric video device. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes a video display device. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an audio / video display device. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes a mobile phone. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an MP3 player. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an off-the-shelf audio and video communication device. 41. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 29, characterized by the fact that the electronic interface device further includes a user input system for receiving user input information. 42. Athletic performance monitoring system, characterized in that it comprises: - a sensing device for physical or physiological sensors associated with athletic performance, a data transfer system in communication with the sensing device for performance data transmission, in which: performance data include at least some portion of physical or physiological data or data derived, for example, in part from at least some portion of physical or physiological data, an electronic interface device including: - a communication input system adapted to receive data performance of the data transfer system; e- an output system having a connection system that includes at least one connection element; e- a portable video device that is releasably connected to the connection element, wherein the output system provides video data to the portable video device via the connection system, and wherein the video data includes at least some portion of the performance data or derived data, at least in part, by at least some portion of the performance data. 43. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized in that it further comprises: - a footwear article, wherein the de-damping device is mounted on or above the footwear article. 44. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized in that it further comprises: - an article of clothing, wherein the detachment device is mounted on or on the article of clothing. 45. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized in that it further comprises: a piece of athletic equipment, wherein the sensing device is mounted on or on the piece of athletic equipment. 46. Athletic performance monitoring system according to Claim 42, characterized in that it further comprises: - a housing for containing the de-damping device and the data transfer system. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 46, characterized by the fact that the housing includes a device for attaching to a user's clothing, shoes or body or a piece of athletic equipment. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized in that the sensing device detects information relating to at least one element selected from the group consisting of: user speed data; user distance data; GPS system data; altitude data; route data; user pass count data; contact force impact force data; room temperature data; environmental humidity data; barometric pressure data; sole element compression data; and jump height data. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized in that the sensing device detects information relating to at least one element selected from the group consisting of: - pulse rate data; heart rate data; blood pressure data; body temperature data; hydration level rate; air intake volume volume data; air expulsion rate or volume data; EKG data; and EEG data. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized in that the data transfer system includes a wireless data transmission device and the input system includes a wireless data reception system in communication with the system. wireless data reception Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized in that the portable video device includes a video screen. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an audio player. 53. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an audio / video display device. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes a mobile phone. 55. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an MP3 player. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 42, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an off-the-shelf audio or video communication device. 57. Athletic performance monitoring system, characterized in that it comprises: - a housing system; a sensing device at least partially included in or about the housing system for sensing physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance; a data transfer system; in communication with the performance data transmission sensing device, wherein the performance data includes at least some portion of the physical or physiological data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of the physical or physiological data; e- an output system at least partially fitted into the housing system, wherein the output system includes a connection system that includes at least one connection element to releasably fit into an input port of a portable external electronic device, and wherein the output system is adapted for video output to a portable electronic device, wherein the video data includes at least some portion of the data transfer system performance data or data derived at least in part from the performance data. 58. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized in that it further comprises: a processing system at least partially included in or about the hosting system for the receipt of performance data and for the supply of video data for output system. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 58, characterized in that it further comprises: a memory in communication with the processing system for storing at least some portion of the performance data or video data. 60. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized by the fact that the data transfer system includes wire or pin connecting element. 61. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized in that it further comprises: - a memory at least partially included in or on the hosting system for storage with at least some portion of the performance data or video data. 62. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized by the fact that the housing system includes a device for attachment to a user's clothing, shoes, or body, or a piece of athletic equipment. 63. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized in that the sensing device detects information concerning at least one element selected from the group consisting of: user speed data; user distance data; GPS system data; altitude data; route data; user pass count data; room temperature data; ambient humidity data; and barometric pressure data. 64. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized in that the sensing device detects information relating to at least one element selected from the group consisting of: - pulse rate data; heart rate data; blood pressure data; body temperature data; hydration level data; air intake volume volume data; air expulsion rate or volume data; EKG data; and EEG data. 65. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized in that it further comprises: - a user input system provided at least partially on or over the housing system for receiving user input information. 66. The athletic performance monitoring system of claim 57, further comprising: - a portable video device releasably connected to the connecting element, wherein the output system provides video data to the portable video device via the connection system, and wherein the video data includes at least some portion of the performance data or data derived at least in part from at least some portion of the performance data. 67. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 66, characterized by the fact that the connection system includes a power supply connector for the portable video device power supply for at least one of the sensing device, the data transfer, or the output system. 68. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes a video screen. 69. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an audio player. 70. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an audio / video display device. 71. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes a mobile phone. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an MP3 player. 73. Athletic performance monitoring system according to claim 57, characterized by the fact that the portable video device includes an off-the-shelf audio or video communication device.